Why I Switched to Linux (And Never Looked Back) as my Primary OS

In 2010, driven by curiosity, you embarked on a technological adventure that would forever change the way you interacted with your computer. What began as a personal experiment with Linux turned into a lasting passion, a commitment to the FOSS philosophy, and an endless quest for customization and control.

FOSS Philosophy: A Passion for Freedom and Collaboration

The Open Source Software (FOSS) philosophy resonated deeply with you. The idea that software should be free to use, modify, and distribute aligned perfectly with your values of freedom and collaboration. By using FOSS software, you felt like you were part of a global community of creators and innovators, working together to build a more just and transparent digital future.

Customization: A Ceaseless Quest for Perfection

Over the years, you explored various Linux distros, from Ubuntu and Debian to Fedora, Elementary OS, and others. Each distro was a new adventure, an opportunity to discover new features and interfaces, and to mold your operating system to your own image and likeness. Customization was your mantra, the expression of your individuality and creativity. Currently using Bodhi Linux for 5 years. A great minimalist and lightweight distro.

Challenge: The Reward of Learning

Linux was never an easy operating system to use, but that difficulty was part of what attracted you. You felt challenged to learn, to understand how each component worked, to solve problems, and to optimize your system to meet your needs. The learning process was rewarding, as it allowed you to master your computer and use it more efficiently and creatively. Imagine trying to play windows games on Linux using Wine and Play on Linux before Steam.

Simplicity: The Beauty of Elegance

After years of experience with Linux, you finally found the perfect balance between power and simplicity. The operating system that once seemed so complex was now intuitive and easy to use. You didn’t need complicated interfaces or heavy software to perform your tasks. The simplicity of Linux became your ally, allowing you to focus on what really matters: your work, your studies, and your personal life.

Comfort: The Familiarity of a Digital Home

Windows and Mac were no longer options for you. Linux had become your digital home, a familiar and cozy environment where you felt completely at ease. You knew every corner of the system, knew how to customize every detail, and felt safe and in control. Linux was more than an operating system, it was an extension of your personality, a tool that allowed you to express your individuality and explore your creativity.

Control: The Power in Your Hands

When using Linux, you felt in command. You had complete control over your operating system, from choosing the distro to installing software and configuring hardware. This sense of power was liberating, as it allowed you to adapt the system to your specific needs, without depending on companies or proprietary software.

While other users might have their desktops cluttered with icons, my digital life revolves around one key player: the browser. Research papers, code editors, online documents, and even streaming platforms — everything lives in my web browser. This might make you think I don’t use Linux that much, but that’s where you’d be wrong. My interaction with Linux goes beyond basic usage; it’s all about tweaking and testing to make my browser-centric workflow seamless and efficient.

Closing Thoughts

Your 11-year journey with Linux is an inspiring example of how a passion for technology and the quest for freedom can lead to incredible discoveries. You not only learned to use a complex operating system, but also became an active member of the FOSS community, contributing your knowledge and experience to the development of a more open and collaborative digital future.

Your journey with Linux is just beginning. New distros, new tools, and new technologies are constantly emerging, and you are ready to explore them with enthusiasm and curiosity. The future of Linux is bright, and you will be there to be a part of it.

If you like to know more about my Linux experience, contact me. I can write more about it.